Setting an alarm clock on a smart device

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of the present application relate to a method and apparatus for setting an alarm clock. The method includes receiving an input directed at a time-display area on a display screen of a device, adjusting time information displayed on the display screen according to the input, and setting an alarm clock according to the adjusted time information.

CROSS REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to People's Republic of China PatentApplication No. 201510142467.4 entitled A METHOD, A MEANS, AND ANELECTRONIC DEVICE FOR SETTING AN ALARM CLOCK OF A SMART DEVICE, filedMar. 27, 2015 which is incorporated herein by reference for allpurposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present application relates to the field of electronic devices and,in particular, smart device technology. In particular, the presentapplication relates to a method, system, and device for setting an alarmclock on a smart device and an alarm clock setting unit for a smartdevice.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

With the popularization of smart devices, more and more users are makinguse of alarm clock applications (“apps”) on smart devices to performfunctions such as reminder functions. The alarm clock app has become awidely used function on smart devices. However, according to the relatedart, alarm clock apps generally involve relatively complex operations inconnection with the setting of various functions provided by such apps.For example, according to some related art, the method for setting analarm clock app includes opening a settings application, selecting ‘SetAlarm,’ or finding and activating the alarm clock app program, then in atime-setting interface, using either screen-touch operations or keyboardinput to enter time information and to set the alarm clock correspondingto such time information; and when the alarm clock is set, implementingthe reminder function through ringing or in another manner.

Thus, it is clear that the process of setting an alarm using the settingscheme of existing alarm clock apps is relatively tedious. Theoperations of such alarm clock apps are inconvenient for users, and thescheme for setting the alarm clock is inefficient. As an example, if asmart device on which an alarm clock app is to be set is in ascreen-locked state, the user is required first to execute an unlockingoperation. Accordingly, the entire operating process is made even moretedious if a smart device needs to be unlocked according to an unlockingoperation before an alarm clock function can be set in the alarm clockapp. In addition, in the case of a temporary alarm clock that requiressetting a reminder after a few minutes, a user is further required tospend time and attention in setting whether such an alarm clock needs tobe repeated. User experience is adversely affected as a result.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the followingdetailed description and the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a flowchart of a method for setting an alarm clock on a deviceaccording to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a user swiping operation directed at atime-display area on a display screen according to various embodimentsof the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method for receiving a touch-controloperation directed at a time-display area on a display screen accordingto various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of alarm clock reminder information displayedin a preset position according to various embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 5 is a diagram of an alarm clock setting unit for a smart deviceaccording to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of an electronic device according to variousembodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a functional diagram of a computer system for implementing analarm clock function according to various embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including as aprocess; an apparatus; a system; a composition of matter; a computerprogram product embodied on a computer readable storage medium; and/or aprocessor, such as a processor configured to execute instructions storedon and/or provided by a memory coupled to the processor. In thisspecification, these implementations, or any other form that theinvention may take, may be referred to as techniques. In general, theorder of the steps of disclosed processes may be altered within thescope of the invention. Unless stated otherwise, a component such as aprocessor or a memory described as being configured to perform a taskmay be implemented as a general component that is temporarily configuredto perform the task at a given time or a specific component that ismanufactured to perform the task. As used herein, the term ‘processor’refers to one or more devices, circuits, and/or processing coresconfigured to process data, such as computer program instructions.

A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the invention isprovided below along with accompanying figures that illustrate theprinciples of the invention. The invention is described in connectionwith such embodiments, but the invention is not limited to anyembodiment. The scope of the invention is limited only by the claims andthe invention encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications andequivalents. Numerous specific details are set forth in the followingdescription in order to provide a thorough understanding of theinvention. These details are provided for the purpose of example and theinvention may be practiced according to the claims without some or allof these specific details. For the purpose of clarity, technicalmaterial that is known in the technical fields related to the inventionhas not been described in detail so that the invention is notunnecessarily obscured.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, an alarmclock can be configured. An alarm clock application can be configuredfrom a screen that is displayed on a graphical user interface and thatis displayed when a smart device is in a locked state. Variousembodiments include a method for setting an alarm clock on a smartdevice or an alarm clock setting unit for a smart device. Embodiments ofthe present application also provide an electronic device.

Setting the time in conventional alarm clock apps generally requires auser to open the settings app and select the alarm clock setting, or tofind and activate an alarm clock app and then enter time information viaa time-setting interface and set the alarm clock corresponding to thetime information. The time information can be entered using screen-touchoperations, keyboard input, or some other such method. It is thus clearthat, in conventional schemes for setting alarm clock apps, the processof setting the alarm clock is relatively cumbersome, and the operationsrequired to set the alarm clock are rather complex. The setting of thetime in a conventional alarm clock app is further complicated if thesmart device is in a screen-locked state. For example, in order to set aconventional alarm clock, if the smart device is in a screen-lockedstate, the user is required to execute an unlock operation beforeopening the settings app and selecting the alarm clock setting, orbefore finding and activating the alarm clock app and entering timeinformation via a time-setting interface.

According to various embodiments, time information displayed on thedisplay screen can be adjusted in response to receiving a touch-controloperation (e.g., a swiping operation or a dragging operation via anexternal input device) directed at a time-display area on the screen. Inother words, the touch-control operation is detected by the operatingsystem, and the location of the initial touch-control operation iswithin the time-display area for the time numerals. Adjusted timeinformation can be input to the device in connection with thetouch-control operation directed at the time-display area on the screen.In response to the device receiving the adjusted time information, thealarm clock is set according to the adjusted time information.Accordingly, the alarm clock of a device (e.g., the alarm clock of analarm clock app or the like executing on a device such as a mobilephone, a wearable device, or other personal computing devices) can berapidly set based on an input being directed to the time-display area onthe screen. Further, the alarm clock of the device can be rapidly seteven in the event that the device is in a screen-locked state. In someembodiments, the touch-control operation can be input via a touchscreenof the device.

Setting an alarm clock can be implemented in various types of devicessuch as smart devices. A smart device can be an electronic device thatoperates an operating system and/or that is connected to anotherelectronic device over a communication protocol such as Bluetooth, NearField Communication (NFC), WiFi, 3G, or the like. As an example, a smartdevice can include a smart phone that runs iOS® or Android®. A smartdevice can be a wearable electronic device such as a watch, a healthmonitor, or the like. However, various embodiments are not limited tosmart device-based applications. Various embodiments can be implementedin various electronic devices such as electronic devices that candisplay time on a display screen, that have an alarm clock reminderfunction, and that can receive screen touch-control operations.

Setting an alarm clock includes receiving a touch-control operationdirected at a time-display area on a display screen, adjusting timeinformation displayed on the display screen according to thetouch-control operation, and setting an alarm clock according to theadjusted time information. In some embodiments, adjusting timeinformation can include adjusting the time information on the alarmclock setting interface, or directly adjusting the time information inthe time-display area. In some embodiments, the time-display areacorresponds to an area within which time information (e.g., a currenttime) is displayed. The time-display area can have predefineddimensions. In some embodiments, characteristics (e.g., size, location,or the like) of the time-display area are configurable such as by auser.

In the event that adjusting the time information includes adjusting thetime information on the alarm clock setting interface, a settings app ofthe smart device or the alarm clock setting function in the alarm clockapp (e.g., sometimes referred to as the clock app for smart devices) canbe used to adjust the time information. For example, in response toreceiving a touch-control operation (e.g., a touch input) directed atthe time-display area on the display screen, the alarm clock settinginterface can be invoked and displayed in the settings app or the alarmclock app. The alarm clock setting interface can be used to adjust thetime information according to the received touch-control operation. Inresponse to receiving a touch-control operation that indicates that thesetting of the time information is complete (e.g., a click on the “OK”button in the alarm clock setting interface), the alarm clock is setaccording to the adjusted time information. The settings app of thesmart device can correspond to a native settings function or applicationthat can be used to set an alarm clock. The settings app can correspondto a system-level function that is embedded in the smart phone (e.g., inthe operating system running on the smart device). In some embodiments,the settings app is a third party app that is purchased from an appstore and installed on the smart device.

For example, in response to receiving an indication that the setting ofthe time information has occurred, the adjusted time information isstored on a memory associated with the device and an alarm clockfunction uses the adjusted time information in connection with operatingthe alarm clock of the device.

Various embodiments include a method for setting an alarm clock for asmart device. In some embodiments, time information is adjusted in thetime-display area. In some embodiments, the time information adjustedbased on input to (or within a predefined threshold distance of) thetime-display area corresponds to time information used in connectionwith an alarm clock app. For example, the alarm clock app can use thetime information when operating an alarm clock. The adjustment of timeinformation based on an input to the time-display area allows for arapid setting of an alarm clock.

The smart device can correspond to a device that has a touchscreen. Insome embodiments, the smart device does not have a touchscreen. In someembodiments, the device can display, in the time-display area of thedisplay screen, time in a digital manner (e.g., “hours: minutes” form),or in an analog manner (e.g., a dial form).

FIG. 1 is a flowchart of a method for setting an alarm clock on a deviceaccording to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 1, process 100 for setting an alarm clock on a deviceis provided. Process 100 can be implemented by, for example, alarm clocksetting unit 500 of FIG. 5, device 600 of FIG. 6, or computer system 700of FIG. 7.

At 110, an input is received to a time-display area on a display screen.The input can be a touch input to a touchscreen. One example is atouch-control operation directed at the time-display area on the displayscreen. In some embodiments, an input within a predefined distance ofthe time-display area on the display can be deemed an input to thetime-display area.

In some embodiments, the time-display area comprises a time-display areaon a lock screen interface, a time-display area on a desktop, or atime-display area on a status bar.

The device can be a smart device that has an input interface such as atouchscreen. The device can display time digitally in the time-displayarea. The time-display area can display time information in real time.For example, a time that is displayed in the display area is updated inreal time according to the current system time (e.g., the timedetermined by the device).

In some embodiments, the alarm clock time can be set by a user by aninput such as a touch input of swiping a finger across the time numeralsdisplayed in the time-display area. In some embodiments, in the event aninput is made to the time-numerals displayed in the time-display area(e.g., via a touch input), real-time display of current time in thetime-display area is temporarily suspended. The real-time display can besuspended for a threshold amount of time. The threshold amount of timecan be configurable according to user preferences, device settings, orthe like. In some embodiments, the input to the time-numerals displayedin the time-display area (e.g., that causes the device to suspend thereal-time display) can correspond to a swiping operation directed at atime numeral in the time-display area. The swiping operation can includean upward swipe or a downward swipe. For example, in response toreceiving an upward swipe touch input to the time-display area, thereal-time display in the time-display area is suspended.

Time information can be displayed in the time-display area. For example,the time information can include time numerals.

The time numerals can include a numeral that represents hours (alsoreferred to as the hour numeral) and a numeral that represents minutes(also referred to as the minute numeral). In some embodiments, the inputto the time-display area in response to which the real-time display issuspended corresponds to a touch input (e.g., a touch inputcorresponding to a swiping operation to one or more of the hour numeralor the minute numeral). For example, the sliding operation can bedirected at the hour numeral or directed at the minute numeral.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a user swiping operation directed at atime-display area on a display screen according to various embodimentsof the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 2, illustration of a user swiping operation 230directed at a time-display area 210 on a display screen 200 is provided.The user swiping operation 230 to the input to the time-display area 210can correspond to the input received at 110 of process 100 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method for receiving a touch-controloperation directed at a time-display area on a display screen accordingto various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 3, process 300 for receiving a touch-control operationdirected at a time-display area on a display screen is provided. Process300 can be implemented in connection with 110 of process 100 of FIG. 1.Process 300 can be implemented by, for example, alarm clock setting unit500 of FIG. 5, device 600 of FIG. 6, or computer system 700 of FIG. 7.

At 310, an input is received at a time numeral. In some embodiments, theinput is an initial touch-control operation directed at the time numeraldisplayed in the time-display area on the display screen. The input canbe detected via the operating system running on the device, or the like.

According to various embodiments, in connection with setting the alarmclock (e.g., the alarm clock time), the user can execute multipletouch-control operations directed at the hour numeral or the minutenumeral in the time-display area. The initial touch-control operationcan be a preset touch-control operation, such as a single-click, adouble-click, a swipe operation, or the like.

At 320, a time selection control is displayed. The time-selectioncontrol can be displayed in the display area corresponding to the timenumerals. In some embodiments, the time-selection control can bedetermined based at least in part on the initial touch-control operation(e.g., the type of initial touch-control operation, or the like).

In some embodiments, if the touch-control operation (e.g., the initialtouch-control operation) is directed at the hour numeral, then atime-selection control with a value range of 0 to 23 is displayed in thedisplay area corresponding to the hour numeral. In some embodiments, ifthe touch-control operation (e.g., the initial touch-control operation)is directed at the minute numeral, then a time-selection control with avalue range of 0 to 59 is displayed in the display area corresponding tothe minute numeral.

The time-selection control can include multiple forms such as adrop-down list, a table, a text box, or the like. In some embodiments,the time-selection control includes a wheel control. The wheel controlis generally considered a relatively more user-friendly graphicinterface. For example, in response to receiving the initial operationdirected at the time numeral, a wheel control having the appropriatevalue range (e.g., 1-12 or 0-23 can be displayed for setting of the hournumeral, or 0-59 can be displayed for setting the minute numeral) isdisplayed in the display area corresponding to the time numeral.

At 330, a selection input according to the time-selection control isreceived. The selection input can correspond to a selection for time.For example, a selection operation for the time numeral displayed by thetime-selection control is received. In the event that the time-selectioncontrol includes a text box, the selection operation can correspond toan input of text (e.g., numbers) corresponding to the desired time.

The appropriate time-selection control is displayed according to thereceived touch-control operation directed at the hour numeral or theminute numeral. In some embodiments, the time-selection control can bedisplayed in connection with 320. For example, the displaying of thetime-selection control can include a determining of the time-selectioncontrol to be displayed based at least in part on the receivedtouch-control operation directed at the time-display area. In someembodiments, the selection input of 330 can be received in connectionwith 320. For example, 320 and 330 can be performed according to onestep.

In the event that the displayed time-selection control is a pull-downlist or a table, then the selection operation can include atouch-control operation (e.g., a single-click operation, apress-and-hold operation, or the like) directed at a specific timenumeral displayed in the list or table. For example, a user can touchthe touchscreen at a location corresponding to the display of thespecific time numeral in the list or the table.

In the event that the time-selection control includes a wheel control,the time-selection control can be an input to change (e.g., turn) thewheel of the wheel control. For example, if the time-selection controlincludes a wheel control, then the selection input is received based ona swiping (also referred to as “dialing”) operation directed (e.g., bythe user) at the wheel. In response to receiving an upward swipingoperation directed at the wheel control, the time-selection controlwill, in connection with rotating the wheel on the display screen,automatically increase the corresponding time numeral displayed (e.g.,in the center of the wheel control) in accordance with the value rangefor the time numeral. Conversely, in response to receiving a downwardswiping operation directed at the wheel control, the time-selectioncontrol will, in connection with rotating the wheel on the displayscreen, automatically decrease the time numeral displayed (e.g., in thecenter of the wheel control) in accordance with the value range for thetime numeral. The time numeral can be configured according to one ormore characteristics of an input (e.g., the swiping operation directedat the wheel). For example, the one more characteristics can include adirection of the input, a speed, a length, or the like. In someembodiments, the time numeral displayed will be changed based at leastin part on the swiping operation directed at the wheel. In someembodiments, the time numeral can be changed based at least in part onthe length of the swiping operation. A longer swiping operation cancorrespond to a relatively greater change in the corresponding timenumeral, and a shorter swiping operation can correspond to a relativelysmaller change in the corresponding time numeral. In some embodiments,the time numeral can be changed based at least in part on a speed of theswiping operation.

In some embodiments, an interface provided by the device (e.g., providedby the operating system or other program running on the system) is usedto implement the wheel function. For example, in the case of smartdevices that run an iOS® system, a UIDatePicker controller classprovided by the iOS® system can be used to implement the wheel operationdescribed above.

Process 300 of FIG. 3 is an implementation of various embodiments for atime-selection control. Various other embodiments adopt other processesfor receiving input in connection with time-selection control. Forexample, various embodiments display text-input boxes for atime-selection control. According to various embodiments, in response tothe received initial touch-control operation directed at thetime-display area, a text-input box is displayed in the time-displayarea of the display screen. In addition, a virtual keyboard can bedisplayed on the display screen. The virtual keyboard can be displayedon the display screen contemporaneously with the text-input box. Thevirtual keyboard can be used to receive an input for the text-input box.For example, touch-control operations by the user directed at thevirtual keyboard can be received. Accordingly, the time information inthe time-display area is adjusted according to the received inputinformation. For example, at 120 of process 100 of FIG. 1, the timeinformation in the time-display area is adjusted in response to thereceived input to the virtual keyboard displayed in connection with thetext-input box for time-selection control.

In some embodiments, after the touch-control operation directed at thetime-display area is received, the time-display area is enlargedaccording to preset dimensions. Enlargement of the time-display area canfacilitate user execution of touch-control operations directed at thetime-display area. After completion of the subsequent alarm-settingoperation (e.g., after the user has input a selection input such as fortime), the size of the time-display area can be further restored to theoriginal size displayed on the status bar. For example, the time-displayarea displayed on a typical status bar is relatively small, with limitedoperational space. After the time-display area on the status barundergoes enlargement processing, the enlarged time-display area lendsgreater convenience to user operations.

Returning to FIG. 1, at 120, time information is adjusted according tothe input to the time-display area. In some embodiments, the timeinformation in the time-display area is adjusted based at least in parton the input to the time-display area on the display screen. Forexample, the time information in the time-display area is adjusted basedat least in part on the touch-control operation.

In some embodiments, the time selection control is not displayed. Inresponse to receiving an input (e.g., a swipe operation) directed at thetime numeral in the time-display area, the time information in thetime-display area is adjusted based on the input. If the input is aswiping operation corresponding to an upward swipe (e.g., a touch inputin which the touch is maintained while dragged upwards), the timenumeral displayed in the time-display area is increased in accordancewith the value range of the time numeral. The extent of the increase inthe time numeral can depend on one or more characteristics of the upwardswipe such as a speed, a distance, or the like. If the input is aswiping operation corresponding to a downward swipe (e.g., a touch inputin which the touch is maintained while dragged downwards), the timenumeral displayed in the time-display area is decreased in accordancewith the value range of the time numeral. The extent of the decrease inthe time numeral can depend on one or more characteristics of thedownward swipe such as a speed, a distance, or the like.

For example, if the time numerals in the time-display area are “13:28”and an upward swiping operation directed at the time numeral “28” (e.g.,the minutes numeral) is received, then in response to receiving anupward swiping operation directed at the minute numeral “28,” the timenumeral displayed in the time-display area can be increased according tothe magnitude of the upward swipe (e.g., the minute numeral “28” isadjusted to “30”). In response to the swiping operation directed at thetime numeral such that the minute numeral “28” is adjusted to “30,” analarm is set to go off in two minutes (e.g., at 13:30).

According to various embodiments, the time-selection control isdisplayed according to the received touch-control operation. The timeinformation in the time-display area can be adjusted according to theselection operation. For example, the time information can be adjustedbased at least in part on a user's input.

If the time-selection control displayed is a pull-down list or a table,then the number selected in the list or table is to update thecorresponding time numeral in the time-display area. In response toreceiving selection of a number in the list or table from the user, thetime numeral in the time-display area can be updated.

If the time-selection control displayed is a wheel control, then thetime numeral can be updated according to a selection selected via thewheel control. For example, in response to rotation of the wheel controlstopping, the number displayed in the center of the wheel is deemed theselected number. A user can control selection of the selected number bycontrolling rotation of the wheel (e.g., via a touch input to thetouchscreen or the like). The selected number can be used to update thecorresponding time numeral in the time-display area.

According to various embodiments, one or more inputs to the time-displayarea are on the display screen and the adjustment of time informationbased on the one or more inputs can be repeatedly executed many times.For example, the time information displayed in the time-display area canbe repeatedly adjusted according to the touch-control operations (e.g.,touch-control operations input by the user). The time displayed in thetime-display area is adjusted to the time at which the user sets thealarm clock.

At 130, an alarm clock is set. The alarm clock can be set according tothe adjusted time information. Setting of the alarm clock can includestoring the adjusted time information such that the time information isassociated with an alarm clock function (e.g., of an alarm clock app).Accordingly, the alarm clock app can use the adjusted time informationin connection with controlling the alarm clock. The setting of the alarmclock according to the adjusted time information can include updatingexisting time information associated with the alarm clock with theadjusted time information.

In some embodiments, the alarm clock is set according to the timeinformation displayed in the time-display area in response to the timeinformation being adjusted according to the input.

In some embodiments, the setting of the alarm clock according to theadjusted time includes receiving an input confirming setting of thealarm clock. For example, the user can be prompted to confirm that theadjusted time information is to be set. A prompt can be displayed to theuser that prompts to the user to select whether the setting of the timeinformation is confirmed or denied. In response to receivingconfirmation, the setting of the alarm clock according to the adjustedtime is completed. The alarm clock operated by the alarm clock app canbe associated with the adjusted time. For example, the alarm clockoperated by the alarm clock app can obtain (e.g., retrieve) informationrelating to the adjusted time. The adjusted time can be stored in atable or the like that stores a mapping of time information to a clock.

In some embodiments, after setting of the alarm clock time is completed(e.g., after adjusting of the time information according to the input),the user can trigger the execution by executing a preset touch-controloperation. In some embodiments, if no touch-control operation directedat the time-display area is received within a preset amount of time,then the time information displayed in the time-display area isacquired, and the alarm clock is set according to the time information.For example, if no input is received to the time-display area within thepreset amount of time after the time information is adjusted, then thealarm clock is set using adjusted time information. The preset amount oftime can correspond to a threshold amount of time after receiving theinput to adjust the time in the time-display area.

For example, if, after the adjusting of the time information accordingto the input to the time-display area, no further touch-controloperation directed at the time-display area is received within threeseconds of receiving the last input associated with the adjusting of thetime information, the user can be regarded as having completed thesetting operation of the alarm clock time. Therefore, the timeinformation displayed in the time-display area can be obtained, and thealarm clock can be set using the time information displayed in thetime-display area. In the above example, the preset time segment isthree seconds. In other implementations, different time segment lengthscan be set according to specific needs. In some embodiments, the presetamount of time can be configurable according to user preferences, devicesettings, or the like.

By using the simple operating method provided by various embodiments inorder to set an alarm, the user might be responding to a temporary needarising from some sudden circumstances and not to a long-term need. Inview of the above, the alarm set can be a temporary alarm that providesonly one alert (also referred to as a single alarm). In other words,after a single alert is provided as a ringing sound or in some otherform when a preset time point is reached, the alarm will be deleted.According to various embodiments, a single alarm can be set usingprocess 100 and a persistent alarm can be set according to conventionalprocesses for setting an alarm (e.g., setting the alarm directly in thealarm clock app or in device settings).

In some embodiments, alarm setting, deleting, and other such functionscan be implemented according to an interface provided by the systemplatform. For example, on a smart device that uses an Android® system,the method provided by the “alarmManager” class can be used to implementthe function described above. In some embodiments, inputs to aninterface including the time-display area (e.g., when the device is in ascreen-locked state) can be used to set an alarm, to delete an alarm, orto perform other functions relating to an alarm clock.

In some embodiments, after an alarm-setting operation is completed(e.g., after the alarm clock is set according to the adjusted time), thereminder information is displayed on the display screen and/or anappropriate alarm listing in the alarm clock app is added.

Because various embodiments provide a convenient and fast approach tosetting an alarm, the user does not need to enter or interface with aconventional alarm-setting interface. For example, a user can directlycomplete the alarm-setting operation on the lock screen interface or thedesktop. In view of the change in operating mode, and in order toclearly notify the user that the alarm setting has been completed,following completion of the setting of the alarm, reminder informationindicating that the alarm clock has been set can be provided in a presetposition on the display screen. The reminder information indicating thatthe alarm clock has been set can include an alarm clock icon and/or timeinformation corresponding to the alarm clock.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of alarm clock reminder information displayedin a preset position according to various embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

Referring to FIG. 4, a display screen 400 including alarm clock reminderinformation is provided. Display screen 400 can be provided inconnection with process 100 of FIG. 1. For example, in response to thealarm being set, display screen 400 can be displayed. Display screen 400can be provided by alarm clock setting unit 500 of FIG. 5, device 600 ofFIG. 6, or computer system 700 of FIG. 7.

Display screen 400 includes an alarm clock reminder area 410. The alarmclock reminder area 410 includes alarm clock reminder information. Forexample, the alarm clock reminder area 410 can be populated with alarmclock reminder information to provide an indication that the alarm clockis set and/or time information associated with the alarm clock. Asillustrated in FIG. 4, alarm clock reminder area 410 can include analarm clock icon displayed in the lower part of the time-display area,and specific time information corresponding to the alarm (e.g.,“13:30”).

According to various embodiments, because the user might need to cancelthe alarm because of an incorrectly performed setting or for some otherreason, an alarm listing corresponding to the alarm can be generated inthe alarm clock app (e.g., an alarm clock app that is installed on thesmartphone) after the alarm setting is completed in order to facilitatealarm cancellation by the user. The alarm clock app in which the alarmlisting is updated to include the alarm set according to variousembodiments can be a default alarm clock app that is configured by thedevice. In some embodiments, the alarm clock app in which the alarmlisting is updated to include the alarm set according to variousembodiments is the alarm clock app which is installed by a devicemanufacturer and that is standard with the device. In some embodiments,the user can select the specific alarm clock app in which the alarmlisting is updated to include the alarm that is set by, for example,process 100. Accordingly, when the user wishes to cancel the alarm, theuser can simply enter the alarm clock app and delete the correspondingalarm listing. During specific implementation, one can generate saidalarm listing by employing a background operating approach. In someembodiments, an operation to update the alarm listing to include thealarm, or to generate the alarm listing, can be invoked and executed inthe background.

In some embodiments, after the alarm is set according to the adjustedtime information, the display mode according to which a real-timedisplay of the time is displayed can be restored. In response to thealarm being set, the display of the time-display area can be restored todisplay real-time information. The time-display area can be restored inresponse to an input (e.g., by the user) or automatically in response tothe alarm being set.

In some embodiments, the time-display area on the display screenundergoes dynamic display updating of the current system time in realtime. In the event that the alarm is set through touch-controloperations directed at the time-display area, the time-display areapauses the real-time display mode, and displays within the time-displayarea the time following the adjustment based on the touch-controloperations. Thus, after the alarm setting is complete, the display modeof the time-display area can be restored to real-time display mode. Forexample, the system time is dynamically displayed in real time in thetime-display area.

For example, at the time corresponding to 13:25, the user sets an alarmhaving the alert time corresponding to 13:30. After setting of the alarmis complete, the time of the display area on the display screen is13:30. At this point (e.g., upon completion of the setting of thealarm), the system time that is obtained through the background (e.g., abackground process being executed by, for example, the operating systemof the device) is 13:26. Thus, the time of the time-display area in thedisplay screen is adjusted to 13:26, and dynamic updating of the displaycontinues in the time-display area (e.g., the display in thetime-display area is restored to a real-time display).

Thus far we have described the specific processing process forimplementing the technical scheme on a touchscreen device that displaystime digitally. In an actual application, this technical scheme can alsobe applied to a touchscreen device that displays time using a dialclock. A further explanation is provided below for such animplementation.

In some embodiments, an alarm can be set according to an input to adevice that displays time using a dial clock. In the event that thedevice includes an interface displaying time via a dial clock, then theinput (e.g., the touch-control operation) received at 110 can correspondto an input (e.g., a touch-control operation) directed at the hour handdisplay or the minute hand display of the dial clock displayed in thetime-display area. An input such as a touch-control operation can bedeemed to be directed at the hour hand or the minute hand if the inputoverlaps with the corresponding hour hand or minute hand, or if theinput is within a predefined threshold distance of the correspondinghour hand or minute hand. The received input can include: a rotatingswipe in a clockwise direction or a rotating swipe in a counterclockwisedirection.

At 120, the time information is adjusted according to the input to thetime-display area. For example, the display positions of the one or moreof the hour hand and minute hand on the dial clock are updated accordingto the touch-control operation. The hour hand and/or the minute hand ofthe dial clock can be adjusted to the corresponding expected timepositions of the alarm setting corresponding to the input by the user.

In some embodiments, in order to make the time on the dial clock displaymore accurately, in response to receiving a touch-control operationdirected at the minute hand, appropriate position adjustments are madeto the hour hand by calculating the deflection angle of the minute hand.For example, in the event that the hour hand and the minute hand areboth pointed at the dial number “12,” and the position of the minutehand is adjusted according to the received touch-control operation sothat the minute hand points to the position of the dial number “3,” adeflection angle for the minute hand can be computed and the hour handcan be adjusted to correspond to the computed deflection angle accordingto the adjusted position (e.g., time) of the minute hand. Using theabove example, the deflection angle of the minute hand is 90°. Inresponse to computing the deflection angle of the minute hand, an anglefor positioning of the hour hand can be computed based at least in parton the deflection angle of the minute hand. The positioning of the hourhand can be adjusted based on the computed deflection angle of theminute hand (e.g., using the computed angle for positioning of the hourhand). Accordingly, the hour hand can be adjusted by rotating the hourhand clockwise to the 7.5° position relative to the dial number “12.” Insome embodiments, in response to receiving a touch-control operationdirected at the hour hand, the display position of the hour hand andminute hand can be adjusted in the same manner as described above inrelation to computing the deflection angle of the hand subject to thetouch-control operation and also adjusting the other hand.

At 130, in connection with setting the alarm clock, deflection angles ofthe hands in a preset coordinate system are obtained (e.g., according tothe current positions of the hour hand and the minute hand in the dialclock displayed in the time-display area). For example, the deflectionangles of the hands in the preset coordinate system can be computedbased at least in part on the adjusted positioning (e.g., that cancorrespond to the adjusted time information) of the hour hand and minutehand. The preset coordinate system can correspond to an x-y axis system(e.g., a Cartesian coordinate system) according to which the horizontal,right-oriented direction is the positive direction on the x-axis and thevertical, upward direction is the positive direction on the y-axis. Insome embodiments, the specific time value displayed on the dial clock isdetermined according to the deflection angles. The alarm is setaccording to the time value. In some embodiments, the deflection anglesof the hands can be computed based at least in part on the timeinformation corresponding to the time-display area. For example, thedeflection angles can be computed based at least in part on the currentpositions of the hour hand and the minute hand of the dial clockdisplayed in the time-display area. In some embodiments, the obtainingof the deflection angles can include obtaining time informationcorresponding to the dial clock displayed in the time-display area. Forexample, the time information corresponding to the dial clock displayedin the time-display area can include deflection angles computed inconnection with the adjusting of the time information.

In some embodiments, the input corresponds to a touch input to atouchscreen on a device such as a smart device. However, according tovarious embodiments, the input is received via an external input devicesuch as a mouse, trackball, or by a sound such as a voice command. Forexample, the device implementing various embodiments may not have atouchscreen and the input can be received via a means other than a touchinput to a touchscreen. For example, the touch-control operationsdescribed above can refer to clicks, drags, and other such controloperations directed at the time-display area on the display screen usingan external input device such as a mouse.

In some embodiments, a click or drag operation is received through amouse directed at a time numeral in the time-display area. In someembodiments, a drag operation can be received from an input by a mousedirected at an hour hand or a minute hand of a dial clock in thetime-display area. The time information in the time-display area isadjusted according to the received above-described operations, and thealarm is set according to the adjusted time information.

Because some embodiments are implemented on devices having a touchscreenand some embodiments are implemented on devices not having atouchscreen, the main difference between such embodiments is thedifference in the specific forms of inputs (e.g., touch-controloperations). For example, a device with a touchscreen device can receivean input in the form of a click operation or swiping operation of afinger. In contrast, a device without a touchscreen can receive an inputin the form of a click operation or drag operation from a mouse.According to various embodiments, processing of the input such asadjusting the time and setting the alarm according to the input (e.g.,the touch-control operation) is similar.

Various embodiments include an alarm clock setting unit for a device(e.g., a smart device) that can implement the alarm clock setting methodfor a device (e.g., a smart device). The alarm clock setting unit canvisualize touch-point tracks of a touchscreen device.

FIG. 5 is a diagram of an alarm clock setting unit for a smart deviceaccording to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 5, alarm clock setting unit 500 is provided. Alarmclock setting unit 500 can set an alarm clock of a device based at leastin part on one or more inputs to the device. Alarm clock setting unit500 can implement process 100 of FIG. 1 and/or process 300 of FIG. 3.Alarm clock setting unit 500 can be implemented in device 600 of FIG. 6and/or computer system 700 of FIG. 7.

The alarm clock setting unit 500 comprises an input receiving unit(e.g., a touch-control operation receiving unit) 510, a time informationadjusting unit 520, and an alarm setting unit 530. The touch-controlinput receiving unit 510 is configured to receive an input to atime-display area on a display. For example, the input receiving unit510 can be configured to receive touch-control operations directed atthe time-display area on the display screen. The time informationadjusting unit 520 is configured to adjust the time informationdisplayed on the display screen according to the input to thetime-display area. For example, time information adjusting unit 520 isconfigured to adjust the time information displayed on said displayscreen according to the touch-control operations to the time-displayarea on the display screen. The alarm setting unit 530 is configured toset the alarm according to the adjusted time information.

In some embodiments, the input receiving unit 510 is configured toreceive a touch-control operation directed at a time-display area on alock screen interface, to receive a touch-control operation directed ata time-display area on a desktop, or to receive a touch-controloperation directed at a time-display area on a status bar displayed on ascreen of the device.

In some embodiments, alarm clock setting unit 500 comprises an alarmclock setting interface display unit that is configured to display analarm clock setting interface in response to the input receiving unit510 receiving an input such as a touch-control operation. The timeinformation adjusting unit 520 can be configured to adjust informationin the alarm clock setting interface based on the input such as thetouch-control operation.

In some embodiments, the time information adjusting unit 520 isconfigured to adjust time information in the time-display area based onthe input (e.g., the touch-control operation).

If the device is a device, such as a smart device, that has atouchscreen, the input receiving unit 510 can be configured to receivetime numeral touch-control operations directed at time numerals in thetime-display area, the time numerals comprising clock numerals or minutenumerals, or receiving hour hand or minute hand touch-control operationsdirected at a dial clock in the time-display area.

In some embodiments, the input receiving unit 510 (e.g., thetouch-control operation receiving unit) can be configured to receive atouch-control operation directed at a time numeral in the time-displayarea, and the time information adjusting unit 520 can comprise a timenumeral increasing unit that is configured to increase the time numeraldisplayed in the time-display area in accordance with the value range ofthe time numeral in the event that the touch-control operation is anupward swipe, and a time numeral decreasing unit that is configured todecrease the time numeral displayed in the time-display area inaccordance with the value range of the time numeral in the event thatthe touch-control operation is a downward swipe.

In some embodiments, the input receiving unit 510 comprises an initialoperation receiving sub-unit, a time-selection control displayingsub-unit, and a time numeral selecting sub-unit. The input receivingunit 510 (e.g., the touch-control operation receiving unit) can beconfigured to receive a touch-control operation directed at a timenumeral in the time-display area.

In some embodiments, the initial operation receiving sub-unit isconfigured to receive an initial touch-control operation directed at thetime numeral.

In some embodiments, the time-selection control displaying sub-unit isconfigured to display an appropriate time-selection control in thedisplay area corresponding to the time numeral.

In some embodiments, the time numeral selecting sub-unit is configuredto receive a selection operation for the time numeral displayed by thetime-selection control.

In some embodiments, the input receiving unit 510 is configured toreceive time numeral click or drag operations directed at time numeralsin the time-display area through an external input device, or to receivehour hand or minute hand drag operations directed at a dial clock in thetime-display area through an external input device. For example, if thedevice is a device such as a smart device that does not have atouchscreen, a touch receiving unit can receive time numeral click ordrag operations directed at time numerals in the time-display areathrough an external input device, or receive hour hand or minute handdrag operations directed at a dial clock in the time-display areathrough an external input device.

In some embodiments, alarm clock setting unit 500 comprises adisplay-enlargement unit configured to enlarge time-display area inaccordance with preset dimensions in response to the input receivingunit 510 receiving a touch-control operation.

In some embodiments, the time information adjusting unit 520 isconfigured to adjust time information in the time-display area afterenlargement by the display-enlargement unit according to thetouch-control operation.

In some embodiments, the alarm setting unit 530 comprises: a timeassessing sub-unit, a time information acquiring sub-unit, and a settingexecution sub-unit.

The time assessing sub-unit can be configured to determine whether atouch-control operation directed at the time-display area is receivedwithin a preset time segment.

The time information acquiring sub-unit can be configured to acquire thetime information displayed in the time-display area when the outputresult of the time assessing sub-unit is negative.

The setting execution sub-unit can be configured to set the alarm clockaccording to the acquired time information.

In some embodiments, the alarm setting unit 530 is configured to set atemporary alarm clock that provides only one alert (e.g., is a singlealarm) according to adjusted time information.

In some embodiments, alarm clock setting unit 500 comprises a reminderinformation displaying unit. The reminder information displaying unit isconfigured to display reminder information indicating that said alarmclock has been set. The reminder information displaying unit can displaythe reminder information in a preset position on the display screen inresponse to completion of the setting of the alarm clock.

In some embodiments, the reminder information displaying unit isconfigured to display an alarm clock icon and/or time informationcorresponding to the alarm clock in a preset position on the displayscreen.

In some embodiments, alarm clock setting unit 500 comprises adisplay-mode restoring unit. The display-mode restoring unit isconfigured to restore the display mode of the time-display area to areal-time display mode in response to the alarm clock setting unitcompleting setting the alarm clock.

In some embodiments, alarm clock setting unit 500 comprises an alarmclock listing generating unit. The alarm clock listing generating unitis configured to generate an alarm clock listing that corresponds to theadjusted time information in an alarm clock app on the smart device inresponse to the alarm clock setting unit completing the setting of thealarm clock.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of an electronic device according to variousembodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 6, electronic device 600 is provided. Electronicdevice 600 can receive an input in connection with setting an alarm,adjust time based at least in part on the alarm, and set the alarmaccording to the adjusted time. Electronic device 600 can implementprocess 100 of FIG. 1 and/or process 300 of FIG. 3. Electronic device600 can include alarm clock setting unit 500 of FIG. 5.

Electronic device 600 comprises a display 610, a processor 620, andmemory 630.

In some embodiments, memory 630 is configured to store one or more alarmclock setting programs. In the event that an alarm clock setting programis accessed and executed by processor 620, the following operations areexecuted: receiving an input such as a touch-control operation directedat a time-display area on a display screen, adjusting the timeinformation displayed on the display screen according to the input(e.g., the touch-control operation), and setting the alarm clockaccording to the adjusted time information.

In one typical configuration, the electronic device 600 comprises one ormore processors (CPUs), input/output interfaces, network interfaces, andmemory.

Memory can include such forms as volatile storage devices incomputer-readable media, random access memory (RAM), and/or non-volatilememory, such as read-only memory (ROM) or flash memory (flash RAM). Astorage device is an example of a computer-readable medium.

Computer readable media include permanent, non-permanent, mobile, andnon-mobile media that can be used to store information by any method ortechnology. Information can be computer-readable commands, datastructures, program modules, or other data. Examples of computer storagemedia include but are not limited to phase-change memory (PRAM), staticrandom access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), othertypes of random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM),electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flashmemory or other memory technology, compact disk read-only memory(CD-ROM), digit multifunction disc (DVD) or other optical storage,magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape or magnetic disc storage, or othermagnetic storage equipment or any other non-transmission media that canbe used to store information that is accessible to computers. As definedin this document, computer-readable media does not include temporarycomputer-readable media (transitory media), such as modulated datasignals and carrier waves.

A person skilled in the art should understand that the embodiments ofthe present application can be provided as methods, systems, or computerprogram products. Therefore, the present application can take the formof completely hardware embodiments, completely software embodiments, orembodiments that combine software and hardware. Moreover, the presentapplication can take the form of computer program products implementedon one or more computer-operable storage media (including but notlimited to magnetic disk storage, CD-ROMs, and optical storage)containing computer-operable program code.

FIG. 7 is a functional diagram of a computer system for implementing analarm clock function according to various embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

Referring to FIG. 7, a computer system 700 for implementing an alarmclock is displayed. Computer system 700 can implement process 100 ofFIG. 1, process 300 of FIG. 3, alarm clock setting unit 500 of FIG. 5,and electronic device 600 of FIG. 6.

Computer system 700, which includes various subsystems as describedbelow, includes at least one microprocessor subsystem (also referred toas a processor or a central processing unit (CPU)) 702. For example,processor 702 can be implemented by a single-chip processor or bymultiple processors. In some embodiments, processor 702 is a generalpurpose digital processor that controls the operation of the computersystem 700. Using instructions retrieved from memory 710, the processor702 controls the reception and manipulation of input data, and theoutput and display of data on output devices (e.g., display 718).

Processor 702 is coupled bi-directionally with memory 710, which caninclude a first primary storage, typically a random access memory (RAM),and a second primary storage area, typically a read-only memory (ROM).As is well known in the art, primary storage can be used as a generalstorage area and as scratch-pad memory, and can also be used to storeinput data and processed data. Primary storage can also storeprogramming instructions and data, in the form of data objects and textobjects, in addition to other data and instructions for processesoperating on processor 702. Also as is well known in the art, primarystorage typically includes basic operating instructions, program code,data, and objects used by the processor 702 to perform its functions(e.g., programmed instructions). For example, memory 710 can include anysuitable computer-readable storage media, described below, depending onwhether, for example, data access needs to be bi-directional oruni-directional. For example, processor 702 can also directly and veryrapidly retrieve and store frequently needed data in a cache memory (notshown). The memory can be a non-transitory computer-readable storagemedium.

A removable mass storage device 712 provides additional data storagecapacity for the computer system 700, and is coupled eitherbi-directionally (read/write) or uni-directionally (read only) toprocessor 702. For example, storage 712 can also includecomputer-readable media such as magnetic tape, flash memory, PC-CARDS,portable mass storage devices, holographic storage devices, and otherstorage devices. A fixed mass storage 720 can also, for example, provideadditional data storage capacity. The most common example of massstorage 720 is a hard disk drive. Mass storage device 712 and fixed massstorage 720 generally store additional programming instructions, data,and the like that typically are not in active use by the processor 702.It will be appreciated that the information retained within mass storagedevice 712 and fixed mass storage 720 can be incorporated, if needed, instandard fashion as part of memory 710 (e.g., RAM) as virtual memory.

In addition to providing processor 702 access to storage subsystems, bus714 can also be used to provide access to other subsystems and devices.As shown, these can include a display monitor 718, a network interface716, a keyboard 704, and a pointing device 706, as well as an auxiliaryinput/output device interface, a sound card, speakers, and othersubsystems as needed. For example, the pointing device 706 can be amouse, stylus, track ball, or tablet, and is useful for interacting witha graphical user interface.

The network interface 716 allows processor 702 to be coupled to anothercomputer, computer network, or telecommunications network using anetwork connection as shown. For example, through the network interface716, the processor 702 can receive information (e.g., data objects orprogram instructions) from another network or output information toanother network in the course of performing method/process steps.Information, often represented as a sequence of instructions to beexecuted on a processor, can be received from and outputted to anothernetwork. An interface card or similar device and appropriate softwareimplemented by (e.g., executed/performed on) processor 702 can be usedto connect the computer system 700 to an external network and transferdata according to standard protocols. For example, various processembodiments disclosed herein can be executed on processor 702, or can beperformed across a network such as the Internet, intranet networks, orlocal area networks, in conjunction with a remote processor that sharesa portion of the processing. Additional mass storage devices (not shown)can also be connected to processor 702 through network interface 716.

An auxiliary I/O device interface (not shown) can be used in conjunctionwith computer system 700. The auxiliary I/O device interface can includegeneral and customized interfaces that allow the processor 702 to sendand, more typically, receive data from other devices such asmicrophones, touch-sensitive displays, transducer card readers, tapereaders, voice or handwriting recognizers, biometrics readers, cameras,portable mass storage devices, and other computers.

The computer system shown in FIG. 7 is but an example of a computersystem suitable for use with the various embodiments disclosed herein.Other computer systems suitable for such use can include additional orfewer subsystems. In addition, bus 714 is illustrative of anyinterconnection scheme serving to link the subsystems. Other computerarchitectures having different configurations of subsystems can also beutilized.

It should be understood that the devices and methods that are disclosedin the several embodiments provided above can be realized in other ways.For example, the device embodiment described above is merelyillustrative. For example, the delineation of units is merely adelineation according to local function. The delineation can take adifferent form during actual implementation.

The units described as separate components may or may not be physicallyseparate, and components displayed as units may or may not be physicalunits. They can be located in one place, or they can be distributedacross multiple network units. The embodiment schemes of the presentembodiments can be realized by selecting part or all of the units inaccordance with actual need.

Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of thepresent invention can be integrated into one processing unit, or eachunit can have an independent physical existence, or two or more unitscan be integrated into a single unit. The aforesaid integrated units cantake the form of hardware, or they can take the form of hardwarecombined with software function units.

The units described above in which the software function units areintegrated can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Thesoftware function units described above are stored in a storage mediumand include a number of commands whose purpose is to cause a piece ofcomputer equipment (which can be a personal computer, a server, ornetwork computer) or a processor to execute some of the steps in themethod described in the various embodiments of the present invention.The storage medium described above encompasses: USB flash drive, mobilehard drive, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magneticdisk, or optical disk, or various other media that can store programcode.

Although the present application is disclosed using the preferredembodiments above, they cannot be used to limit the present application.Any person with skill in the art can make possible alterations andmodifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the presentapplication. Therefore, the scope of protection of the presentapplication shall be the scope defined by the claims of the presentapplication.

Although the foregoing embodiments have been described in some detailfor purposes of clarity of understanding, the invention is not limitedto the details provided. There are many alternative ways of implementingthe invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and notrestrictive.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method, comprising: receiving an input directedat a time-display area on a display screen of a device, wherein thedevice is in a locked state; adjusting time information displayed on thedisplay screen according to the input; and setting an alarm clockaccording to the adjusted time information.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein the input corresponds to a touch-control operation to atouchscreen.
 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: in responseto receiving the input, displaying an alarm clock setting interface,wherein time information displayed on the display screen comprises timeinformation in the alarm clock setting interface.
 4. The method of claim1, wherein the time information displayed on the display screencomprises time information in the time-display area.
 5. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the time information displayed on the display screencomprises time information in the time-display area, and the device is asmart device that has a touchscreen.
 6. The method of claim 1, whereinthe device comprises a touchscreen, the input corresponds to atouch-control operation to a touchscreen, and the touch-controloperation comprises: a time numeral touch-control operation directed atthe time-display area, a time numeral in the time-display areacomprising an hour numeral or a minute numeral; or a time touch-controloperation directed at an hour hand or a minute hand of a dial clockdisplayed in the time-display area.
 7. The method for setting the alarmclock on a smart device as described in claim 6, wherein the devicecomprises a touchscreen, the input corresponds to a touch-controloperation to the touchscreen, and the touch-control operation comprises:a time numeral touch-control operation directed at the time-displayarea, a time numeral in the time-display area comprising an hour numeralor a minute numeral; or a touch-control operation directed at an hourhand or a minute hand of a dial clock displayed in the time-displayarea; and in the event that the touch-control operation is a timenumeral touch-control operation directed at the time-display area, theadjusting of the time information in the time-display area according tothe input comprises: in the event that the touch-control operation is anupward swipe, increasing at least one of time numerals displayed in thetime-display area in accordance with a value range of the correspondingat least one of the time numerals; and in the event that thetouch-control operation is a downward swipe, decreasing at least one ofthe time numerals displayed in the time-display area in accordance withthe value range of the corresponding at least one of the time numerals.8. The method of claim 1, wherein the device comprises a touchscreen,the input corresponds to a touch-control operation to the touchscreen,and the touch-control operation comprises: a time numeral touch-controloperation directed at the time-display area, a time numeral in thetime-display area comprising an hour numeral or a minute numeral; or atouch-control operation directed at an hour hand or a minute hand of adial clock displayed in the time-display area, and wherein in the eventthat the touch-control operation is a time numeral touch-controloperation directed at the time-display area, the receiving of the inputdirected at the time-display area on the display screen comprises:receiving an initial touch-control operation directed at time numerals;displaying a time-selection control in the time-display areacorresponding to the time numerals; and receiving a selection operationfor a time numeral displayed by the time-selection control.
 9. Themethod of claim 8, wherein the time-selection control is a wheelcontrol.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the input comprises: a clickor drag operation input by an external input device, the click or dragoperation being directed at a time numeral within the time-display area;or a drag operation input by an external input device, the dragoperation being directed at an hour hand or a minute hand of a dialclock displayed in the time-display area.
 11. The method of claim 1,further comprising: in response to receiving of the input directed atthe time-display area on the display screen, enlarging the time-displayarea in accordance with preset dimensions.
 12. The method of claim 1,wherein the setting of the alarm clock according to the adjusted timeinformation comprises: determining that no touch-control operationdirected at the time-display area is received within a preset timesegment; and in response to determining that no touch-control operationdirected at the time-display area is received within the preset timesegment: obtaining the time information displayed in the time-displayarea; and setting the alarm clock according to the obtained timeinformation.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the alarm clock setaccording to the adjusted time information is a temporary alarm clockthat provides only one alert.
 14. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising: in the event that the alarm clock is set according to theadjusted time information, displaying, in a preset position on thedisplay screen, reminder information indicating that the alarm clock hasbeen set.
 15. The method of claim 1, further comprising: in the eventthat the alarm clock is set according to the adjusted time information,displaying, in a preset position on the display screen, reminderinformation indicating that the alarm clock has been set, the reminderinformation comprising one or more of an alarm clock icon and timeinformation corresponding to the alarm clock.
 16. The method of claim 1,further comprising: in the event that the alarm clock is set accordingto the adjusted time information, restoring a display mode of thetime-display area to a real-time display mode.
 17. The method of claim1, further comprising: in the event that the alarm clock is setaccording to the adjusted time information, generating in an alarm clockapp of the device an alarm clock listing that corresponds to theadjusted time information.
 18. A computer program product, the computerprogram product being embodied in a non-transitory computer readablestorage medium and comprising computer instructions for: receiving aninput directed at a time-display area on a display screen of a device,wherein the device is in a locked state; adjusting time informationdisplayed on the display screen according to the input; and setting analarm clock according to the adjusted time information.
 19. The computerprogram product of claim 18, wherein the input corresponds to atouch-control operation to a touchscreen.
 20. The computer programproduct of claim 18, wherein the time-display area is displayed on oneor more of a lock screen interface, a desktop, or a status bar.
 21. Thecomputer program product of claim 18, further comprising instructionsfor: in response to receiving the input, displaying an alarm clocksetting interface, wherein time information displayed on the displayscreen comprises time information in the alarm clock setting interface.22. The computer program product of claim 18, wherein the timeinformation displayed on the display screen comprises time informationin the time-display area.
 23. The computer program product of claim 18,wherein the device is a smart device that has a touchscreen.
 24. Thecomputer program product of claim 18, wherein the device comprises atouchscreen, the input corresponds to a touch-control operation to atouchscreen, and the touch-control operation comprises: a time numeraltouch-control operation directed at the time-display area, a timenumeral in the time-display area comprising an hour numeral or a minutenumeral; or a time touch-control operation directed at an hour hand or aminute hand of a dial clock displayed in the time-display area.
 25. Thecomputer program product of claim 24, wherein in the event that thetouch-control operation is a time numeral touch-control operationdirected at the time-display area, the adjusting of the time informationin the time-display area according to the input comprises: in the eventthat the touch-control operation is an upward swipe, increasing at leastone of time numerals displayed in the time-display area in accordancewith a value range of the corresponding at least one of the timenumerals; and in the event that the touch-control operation is adownward swipe, decreasing at least one of the time numerals displayedin the time-display area in accordance with the value range of thecorresponding at least one of the time numerals.
 26. The computerprogram product of claim 24, wherein in the event that the touch-controloperation is a time numeral touch-control operation directed at thetime-display area, the receiving of the input directed at thetime-display area on the display screen comprises: receiving an initialtouch-control operation directed at the time numerals; displaying atime-selection control in the time-display area corresponding to thetime numerals; and receiving a selection operation for a time numeraldisplayed by the time-selection control.
 27. The computer programproduct of claim 26, wherein the time-selection control is a wheelcontrol.
 28. The computer program product of claim 18, wherein the inputcomprises: a click or drag operation input by an external input device,the click or drag operation being directed at a time numeral within thetime-display area; or a drag operation input by an external inputdevice, the drag operation being directed at an hour hand or a minutehand of a dial clock displayed in the time-display area.
 29. Thecomputer program product of claim 18, further comprising instructionsfor: in response to receiving of the input directed at the time-displayarea on the display screen, enlarging the time-display area inaccordance with preset dimensions.
 30. The computer program product ofclaim 18, wherein the setting of the alarm clock according to theadjusted time information comprises: determining that no touch-controloperation directed at the time-display area is received within a presettime segment; and in response to determining that no touch-controloperation directed at the time-display area is received within thepreset time segment: obtaining the time information displayed in thetime-display area; and setting the alarm clock according to the obtainedtime information.
 31. The computer program product of claim 18, whereinthe alarm clock set according to the adjusted time information is atemporary alarm clock that provides only one alert.
 32. The computerprogram product of claim 18, further comprising instructions for: in theevent that the alarm clock is set according to the adjusted timeinformation, displaying, in a preset position on the display screen,reminder information indicating that the alarm clock has been set. 33.The computer program product of claim 18, further comprisinginstructions for: in the event that the alarm clock is set according tothe adjusted time information, displaying, in a preset position on thedisplay screen, reminder information indicating that the alarm clock hasbeen set, the reminder information comprising one or more of an alarmclock icon and time information corresponding to the alarm clock. 34.The computer program product of claim 18, further comprisinginstructions for: in the event that the alarm clock is set according tothe adjusted time information, restoring the display mode of thetime-display area to a real-time display mode.
 35. The computer programproduct of claim 18, further comprising instructions for: in the eventthat the alarm clock is set according to the adjusted time information,generating in an alarm clock app of the device an alarm clock listingthat corresponds to the adjusted time information.
 36. An alarm clocksetting unit comprising: an input receiving unit configured to receivean input directed at a time-display area on a display screen of adevice, wherein the device is in a locked state; a time informationadjusting unit configured to adjust time information displayed on thedisplay screen according to the input; and an alarm clock setting unitconfigured to set an alarm clock according to the adjusted timeinformation.
 37. A system for setting an alarm clock, comprising: atleast one processor configured to: receive an input directed at atime-display area on a display screen of a device, wherein the device isin a locked state; adjust time information displayed on the displayscreen according to the input; and set the alarm clock according to theadjusted time information; and a memory coupled to the at least oneprocessor and configured to provide the at least one processor withinstructions.